Exploring Cambodia by water is one of the most enriching ways to connect with its history, culture, and people. Our Phnom Penh to Siem Reap river cruises combine relaxing river journeys with immersive shore excursions that take you into the heart of the country. This cruise route unveils a slower, deeper side of Cambodia that few get to experience. Below are the key destinations that make this journey so special.
The capital city of Cambodia is often the starting point of Phnom Penh to Siem Reap river cruises. Phnom Penh offers a compelling mix of regal grandeur and historical depth. Guests can visit the magnificent Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, stroll through the National Museum to admire ancient Khmer art, and enjoy the lively riverfront promenade. For a sobering yet essential perspective, many travelers also visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields at Choeung Ek, which tell the story of Cambodia’s recent past. With its cultural richness and warm hospitality, Phnom Penh sets the tone for a journey of insight and reflection.
Further along the Tonle Sap River lies Kampong Tralach, a peaceful village known for its timeless countryside charm. One of the highlights here is a traditional oxcart ride through rice paddies and small communities, allowing visitors to observe local life up close. The serene Wat Kampong Tralach Leu, set amid coconut palms and rural landscapes, provides a quiet place for contemplation and photography. This destination gives a beautiful sense of how Cambodian traditions are preserved in everyday village life.
A key stop on many Phnom Penh to Siem Reap river cruises is Kampong Chhnang, renowned for its riverside pottery villages and floating communities. Local boats take visitors through the waterways to witness homes, schools, and shops built on stilts or rafts, adapting to seasonal water changes. The town’s name, which means “Port of Pottery,” reflects its centuries-old ceramic-making heritage. Travelers often enjoy watching artisans shape clay pots by hand, using skills passed down through generations.
As the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, Tonle Sap Lake plays a vital role in Cambodia’s ecosystem and economy. During high-water season, some cruises will cross this vast inland sea, offering the chance to witness life on the water in its most unique form. Floating villages drift across the lake, with entire communities—homes, markets, temples—rising and falling with the tide. This part of the journey showcases the incredible adaptability of the Cambodian people and their deep connection to water-based living.
The final destination on most Phnom Penh to Siem Reap river cruises is the enchanting city of Siem Reap. Best known as the gateway to the ancient city of Angkor, it offers travelers a majestic end to their journey. The temples of Angkor Wat, Bayon, and Ta Prohm reveal the spiritual and artistic achievements of the Khmer Empire. Beyond the temples, Siem Reap charms visitors with vibrant markets, Apsara dance shows, and flavorful Khmer cuisine. It’s a destination that blends ancient wonder with modern comfort, leaving guests with unforgettable memories of Cambodia’s soul.
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